Cleaning A Speaker Suggestions For Maintaining Solid Sound

Speakers make up the final component of an audio system. The combination of cabinets and drivers brings music and movies to life, filling a room and enveloping the listener. As such, keeping your speakers clean both inside and out ensures years of high-fidelity performance.

Exterior Cabinets

The cabinets provide more than a structure to hold electronics; the shape, size, and materials help to reinforce low-end resonance and propel the sound forward. 

Whether constructed from fine, rare woods or specially designed composites, keeping them clean prevents the accumulation of dust that can fall into the drivers and maintains the visual appeal. Unless the wood requires special care and oils, using a damp cloth (preferably microfiber) to wipe the surface should be sufficient. If desired, an occasional manufacturer-approved wood polish can be used to protect the surface.

Speaker Grills, the fabric cover that protects the drivers from bumps, pokes, and other environmental dangers, can be cleaned with a soapy sponge. After drying, lift off any remaining debris with a vacuum and a brush attachment.

Woofers and Tweeters (Drivers)

Nearly all speakers will have at least one Woofer (mid- to low-frequency) and one Tweeter (high-frequency) driver; higher-end models include additional units dedicated to specific sound ranges. Over time, dust build-up in the drivers adversely affects the quality of reproduction, making it muddier and less distinct.

Tweeters are made of very delicate materials applied as a thin sheet over a framework; as such, great care must be taken when cleaning. In most cases, using canned or compressed air will remove any dust. Take caution and keep the nozzle an inch or more away to avoid poking the surface physically or from the air pressure.

While the cones (low and mid-frequency drivers) are constructed of more durable material, they should still be handled with care. If applying compressed air does not complete the job, use a small soft brush or microfiber cloth to remove stubborn dirt manually. Again, proceed with care to avoid pushing the cone in or puncturing the skin (The sound Link Ray created by punching holes in his guitar amp may have inspired a generation of rock musicians, but it is a disaster when listening at home.

Connectors

The connectors are the most durable component on any speaker and do not often need cleaning to improve or maintain performance quality. Still, these connection points are made of metals that can deteriorate or corrode over time, including the overhyped use of gold.  

Use a soft cloth to remove dirt or foreign particles from a connection point. If you are experiencing crackling, intermittent connectivity, or hum,  a light application of contact cleaner can help. 

A Little Care Goes A Long Way

While audiophiles can spend hours in isolation tweaking tweeters or adjusting coverage and sweet spots, a few simple actions will keep your system (of any size or quality) sounding great for longer.